Reaction – Action

Often there is action we need to take, want to take, and intend to take, but have done little to take. Most often there are things to be done to get off center and take action.

Step one is attraction. First, there needs to be attraction strong enough to overcome inertia. Interest in the desirable action must arouse enough initial energy to get started. What is there about the action that appeals to you? What will it result in that will be beneficial? What will it accomplish?

The greatest hindrance to accomplishment is distraction, not obstacles, objections, or offenses. Often an initial few steps in the right direction are taken but something or some things detract us. Around rail yards there are frequently side tracks on which railcars are parked for some time. They were pulled off there because it was thought they served a better purpose than if they had continued on down the line. The purpose may have been good, but it kept the car from a further destination.

Numerous Bible characters got sidetracked and renewed the effort for which they were intended. David decidedly did and after praying for the Lord to renew his joy for the journey prayed, “Lord restore the joy of my salvation.’ Once restored David became a major achiever.

When you get sidetracked and are facing friction remember you are not alone. When you try and meet opposition don’t quit. Renew your energy and effort by realizing the Lord is your helper in every worthy cause.  Ask Him to help you stay focused.

Good things often keep us from better things. Failing to list and follow our priorities we frequently are side tracked by things of lesser importance. Often they are things of importance, but out of order.

There needs to be renewed traction, something to get us moving. Keep in mind there is no traction without friction. For a wheel to start rolling there must be friction against the surface on which it is to move. That very friction is a catalyst. It overcomes the impediments in order to move. The same is true if we are to take any action. Expect friction, opposition and make it work to your advantage.

Attraction, distraction, and traction enable reaction. They put you in a position to act and motivate reaction. You are then in position to overcome whatever has kept you from action.

“Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3: 12 – 14)

Get on track, expect friction, don’t be distracted and ask the Lord to give you a time table and keep you on time in order to achieve the action He guides you to take.